EVST 3740 - Acoustic Ecology

5 credit hours
Formerly - formerly offered as Special Topics

Much of our modern effort to understand the world around us is mediated by our sense of sight €”we say “I see” to mean “I understand.” In this course we will pursue a different path. We will direct our sustained attention to the dynamic realm of sound, shifting the balance of our sensorium from eye to ear. We will begin by studying natural sounds, especially animal communication, and will then examine the growing acoustical footprint of modern urban and industrial civilization. We will also examine the physiological, psychological, social, and ecological aspects of noise pollution, including the influence of electronic communication, and the practical, legal, and ethical issues regarding its mitigation. We’ll cultivate listening sensitivities and recording capabilities, will conduct field investigations of local soundscapes, and will develop strategies for orchestrating the soundscape to create a more equitable and sustainable sound environment. Class periods will involve some brief lectures, discussions, audios and videos, “ear cleaning” exercises, field trips, and small group work.